Project Galileo

Galileo is now enroute to Jupiter to do its intensive and comprehensive investigation of the Jupiter System. The Galileo Spacecraft consists of a Jupiter Orbiter and an Atmospheric Entry Probe. The Galileo mission at Jupiter is described. The design and operation of the Probe and Orbiter are discussed in some detail. The history of the many Shuttle upper stage changes Galileo experienced during development is outlined. The VEEGA trajectory Galileo is flying to achieve enough energy to reach Jupiter is explained. Science of opportunity on the circuitous VEEGA route is identified. Galileo Mission Operations are described. The paper concludes with an inflight mission status statement.